The very first "Bouquet Maker" in Minnesota, was Lyman M. Ford. He started his nursery in St. Paul's Midway district in 1851, known as Groveland Garden and Nursery, and later Pioneer Greenhouse. There were a few other early greenhouse builders in the metro area, and of course Bachmans, South of the area. Developemt and urban sprawl eventually took its toll on most of these facilities. As of july 31 2009, for floral retailing - Minneapolis Floral wes the last standing, they have closed - effective August 01 - Selling the busineess to Bachmans. They were the 3rd florist in the Twin Cities -- A long history, and I am sure will be missed by many! Now, the former, Robert Stern florsits, who's boiler house smoke stack, was the tallest structure in Minneapolis prior to the building of the Foshay Tower, now being run as Crystal Lake Floral Design & Orchids by Murphy is the longest run floral seller in town, followed by lindskoogs, a handful of others, and of course Bachmans by the 1920's. Prior to the 20's Bachmans sold primarily Produce.

There is an incredible History of Minnesota Florisulture, put toghether by the University of Minnesota, Definately recomended reading Click Here To Access This Wonderful Bit Of Reading! -- Enjoy! Phillip Murphy - Crystal Lake Floral

Page Image Credits --

Top Image Provided By Soderbgerg's Floral, Minneapolis - Large View Of This Image Here

Page Center Minnesota Florist Association Provided By Hermes Floral St Paul - Large View Of This Image Here